Slovakian developer Penta Real Estate has officially entered the UK market, launching its first London projects through a new 50/50 joint venture with urban regeneration specialist Ballymore. Together, the partners will deliver more than 680 new homes across two major residential schemes, marking a significant milestone in Penta’s international expansion. The developer has recently established a London office and is moving ahead with its initial developments after both secured full planning consent. Construction is already under way on the schemes, which have a combined gross development value of more than £700m. The first project, Cuba Street, is a 52-storey residential tower located on the edge of Canary Wharf. Designed to bring contemporary homes to one of London’s most dynamic business districts, the scheme is set to become a new landmark in the area. The second development, The Capston, forms the final phase of Ballymore’s ambitious Embassy Gardens regeneration in Nine Elms. The project will deliver 247 apartments across two buildings rising 11 and 22 storeys, completing one of London’s best-known regeneration masterplans. Pavel Streblov, managing director of Penta Real Estate UK, said the partnership marks an exciting moment for the business as it enters what he described as the world’s leading real estate market. He said the joint venture reflects a shared ambition with Ballymore to deliver high-quality homes and create positive outcomes for London’s communities. Streblov added that both organisations are committed to shaping distinctive and inspiring residential environments, and he looked forward to bringing forward new opportunities for Londoners. John Mulryan, group managing director at Ballymore, said securing the investment for the two schemes is a major achievement given current market conditions. He emphasised that with housing supply under pressure across the capital, progressing projects at pace is essential, and the partnership with Penta Real Estate will help ensure delivery continues. Mulryan noted that the two companies are aligned in both approach and ambition, and he welcomed the opportunity to establish what is expected to be a long-term collaboration in London’s residential sector. With construction under way at both sites, the joint venture is set to play a meaningful role in meeting demand for new homes in highly sought-after parts of the capital. For Penta, the developments mark the beginning of what is expected to be a wider programme of UK activity, following years of growth in Central Europe. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Leading affordable housebuilder, Orbit Homes, has started construction on 272 new homes in the East at Victoria Gardens, a new development in Great Plumstead. At Victoria Gardens, Orbit Homes is delivering 138 affordable homes for social rent and Shared Ownership, alongside 134 homes for market sale. The new development will comprise a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes. All homes at Victoria Gardens will follow Orbit Homes’ tenure-blind approach, meaning that regardless of whether a customer moves into their new home via market sale, shared ownership or social rent, they will receive the same commitment to sector-leading design, specification, and safety, alongside outstanding customer service. Victoria Gardens is designed to embrace sustainability and support Orbit’s wider commitment to The Wildlife Trusts’ 30by30 campaign to enable nature’s recovery by 2030 with large areas of public space including an orchard. With works underway on the Smee Lane site, the first homes are set to be available for purchase in Spring 2026. Brian Nearney, Chief Development Officer at Orbit, said: “We are delighted to have started on site at Victoria Gardens, where we’re working to build 272 quality new homes that will be ideal for those at all stages of life. We’re also very proud to be delivering over half of these homes in affordable tenures to support the local housing need and further our commitment to building thriving mixed-tenure communities. “Our team is excited to share more details about Victoria Gardens in the coming months, and we encourage anyone interested to register their interest now and be the first to find out more.” Victoria Gardens is supported by grant funding from Homes England for the delivery of affordable homes. The new development is situated in Great Plumstead, a parish village on the outskirts of Norwich, where locals can enjoy the best of both worlds with the beautiful countryside and a range of amenities nearby, including Norwich city centre and Norwich train station less than five miles away. For more information about Victoria Gardens and to register your interest, visit: www.orbithomes.org.uk/victoria-gardens Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Contractor Midgard has been given approval to begin work on a £145 million twin tower residential development in Birmingham after the project successfully passed the Gateway 2 safety stage. Developer Sphere Group, working with strategic partner Select Property, is delivering the Edition Birmingham scheme, which has become the first residential skyscraper project in the city to secure sign off from the Building Safety Regulator. The development will deliver 581 new homes beside Centenary Square, split between the 46 storey Centenary Tower and the 15 storey Park Residence. Midgard, part of the JRL Group, plans to use modular construction methods to accelerate progress, with phase one expected to complete in 2027. Thomas Taylor, managing director of Sphere Group, said:“The new Building Safety Act Gateway 2 introduces some of the most stringent safety requirements in the world, making the UK a market leader and one of the safest places to invest.“Securing Gateway 2 approval is a major milestone and underlines our commitment to ensuring Edition Birmingham is built to the very highest standards of safety and quality.” Residents will benefit from an extensive range of amenities, including a swimming pool suspended 20 metres above ground, a hydro pool, plunge pool, sauna and steam room. Further features include a sky lounge with private dining on the 44th and 45th floors, a co working space known as The Study, and a 9,000 square foot outdoor terrace with cinema screen and BBQ area. Engineering consultancy is being led by SOM, with Futureserv acting as MEP consultant. Interiors are being designed by Weedon Architects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A major new waterfront neighbourhood is taking shape in Salford after developer Bentry Capital completed a £12 million acquisition of the Irwell Gardens site. Its in-house construction firm, Mellior Group, is set to begin work in the first quarter of next year, starting with 50 three and four bedroom townhouses. This will mark the launch of phase one of the £80 million development. The three acre brownfield site off Regatta Street, which sits along the River Irwell, is earmarked for 100 modern townhouses and 100 apartments to be delivered across two phases. Mellior is now progressing the planning application for phase two, which will bring forward a further 50 houses and 100 flats once approved. Phase one is expected to take around 18 months to complete and will cost approximately £35 million to build. The deal bolsters Bentry Capital’s expanding £500 million UK residential pipeline and follows the success of its nearby Willow Court project, a 119 apartment scheme where the final homes are now being handed over to owner occupiers. Located close to Salford Quays, MediaCity and the University of Salford, the Irwell Gardens site also overlooks the historic location of a 1944 Lancaster bomber crash, which continues to be commemorated by the local community. David Cain, co founder and chief development officer at Bentry Capital, said:“Mellior Group is excellently placed to lead the construction of Irwell Gardens, and we look forward to starting on site in the new year. Despite wider market challenges, we have delivered premium quality homes at nearby Willow Court, and this trusted, experienced team will now bring the Irwell Gardens vision to life.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Henry Boot Construction has been appointed by Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver 18 brand-new energy-efficient homes in Mastin Moor, marking a key step in the council’s commitment to expanding its affordable housing supply. Work is now underway on site. This project marks one of the first housing developments to be supported by the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s (EMCCA) Brownfield Housing Fund. This initiative, funded by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government and delivered in partnership with Homes England, will unlock stalled residential developments and breathe new life into under-used land across the region. The development will see 13 new council homes built on Miller Avenue, whilst a further five houses will also be constructed on Edale Road. In total, Henry Boot Construction will deliver seven four-bedroom homes and eleven two-bedroom homes, all allocated to families on the council’s housing register. Each home is designed to achieve A-rated energy performance, with sustainability measures built in from the start of construction. Solar PV panels and air-source heat pumps will be installed across all plots, helping reduce running costs for future tenants and reducing carbon emissions across the borough. External works will provide private gardens and off-road parking for residents, while both locations are situated close to public transport routes for easy access to local services. Additional environmental features include bat and bird boxes on every plot and electric vehicle charging points. Mat Clarke, Head of Construction at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re proud to be supporting Chesterfield Borough Council in its mission to deliver affordable, energy-efficient homes for families across the borough. “It’s great for us to be back in Chesterfield after recently working with the council on its largest housing development in decades at Badger Croft, and we’re delighted to continue playing our part in increasing the local housing supply.” Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “As a council, we remain committed to increasing the supply of affordable housing for local people and this latest project is helping us to achieve this. “We are really pleased that EMCCA has allocated part of its Brownfield Housing Fund to help deliver this project that will provide much needed homes for local families. We look forward to working with EMCCA and Henry Boot Construction and watching the project progress. “With the cost of living continuing to rise, we know how important it is to our tenants to keep homes warm but energy costs down, so we’re really pleased to be delivering new properties with the top energy efficiency rating.” To mark the start of the project, Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, joined the Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, and the council’s cabinet member for housing, Councillor Jean Innes for a site visit hosted by Henry Boot Construction. Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This project is a powerful example of how we’re turning our vision for inclusive growth into reality. Through the Brownfield Housing Fund, we’re creating high-quality, affordable homes that meet the needs of local families while supporting greener, more sustainable communities. By investing in places like Mastin Moor, we’re making the East Midlands a region that everyone is proud to call home.” EMCCA has secured a devolved allocation of Brownfield Housing Fund investment from the UK Government to support the delivery of housing on brownfield sites in the East Midlands. The funding commitment will deliver more than 2,000 high-quality homes, supporting Mayor Claire Ward’s ambition to build 100,000 new homes in the region by 2035. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Chalegrove Properties (CPL) has revealed two new duplex penthouses at One Thames Quay, the recently completed residential landmark on South Quay in Canary Wharf. Positioned on the 47th and 48th floors, the penthouses—named The Merchant and The Mariner—take inspiration from the Docklands’ maritime heritage and offer expansive views across London’s skyline. The two homes have been designed to reflect the landscape and character of their surroundings. Both feature double-height balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing that frame views across Canary Wharf, the River Thames and the wider city. Inside, the residences include refined herringbone flooring, contemporary integrated kitchens and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Facing Canary Wharf is The Merchant, a fully dressed penthouse now open for private viewings. Its design draws on the area’s transformation from an 1800s trade hub handling goods such as sugar and spices into the global business district it is today. Split across two levels, the home features an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area with a corner balcony on the lower floor, and two en-suite bedrooms arranged on the upper floor in a calm, neutral palette that mirrors the surrounding towers. The Mariner, an east-facing apartment, offers sweeping views over the O2 Arena, the Greenwich Peninsula and the Thames as it curves toward the sea. Designed with subtle nautical influences and blue and bronze accents, this light-filled home features two generous bedroom suites, a bright open-plan living space and a private balcony. Residents of One Thames Quay also have access to the newly completed lifestyle amenities located just below the penthouses. These include a 5,795 sq ft indoor–outdoor garden space, a sky lounge and bar, co-working areas, a private dining room and a sky gym fitted with Technogym equipment. Further facilities on the second floor include a canopy garden, children’s play area, a bookable bowling alley, games room and media lounge. Rami Atallah, Director at Chalegrove Properties, said the penthouses represent the most exclusive homes within the development, combining panoramic views with high-quality facilities and sustainable design principles. Each residence incorporates integrated zero-fossil-fuel heating and cooling, triple glazing and rainwater harvesting systems to support long-term energy efficiency. Residents also benefit from a five-star concierge service, 24-hour security and secure parcel management. Situated moments from the shops, restaurants and leisure offerings of Wood Wharf and the wider Canary Wharf estate, One Thames Quay is well connected, with the DLR, Underground and Elizabeth Line all within walking distance. Travel to key locations across London—including Heathrow and London City Airport—is achievable in under 40 minutes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Unlocking one of London’s largest and most connected new waterfront neighbourhoods… Arada, the UAE’s fastest-growing master developer, announces that it has agreed the acquisition of an 80% stake in Thameside West, a landmark waterfront mixed-use development located at the western end of London’s Royal Docks. Master-planned by Foster + Partners, the vibrant new urban destination will deliver at least 5,000 homes, with half of the site dedicated to green space and a kilometre of active waterfront. Boasting unrivalled transport links, the integration of air, road, rail, river and tunnel links makes this one of the most connected sites in London. Spread over a 47-acre area – twice the size of the Hudson Yards mixed-use development in New York – Thameside West represents one of Europe’s largest and most strategically important regeneration opportunities, with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of £2.5 billion. It occupies central London’s longest stretch of undeveloped riverfront, with views across Canary Wharf and Greenwich Peninsula. Already awarded consent, Thameside West will see 1,000 homes delivered in the first stage of the project, with construction set to begin in 2027. The acquisition from private developer Keystone represents Arada’s second large-scale investment in the London residential market in the space of less than two months, following its purchase of local developer Regal in September. Arada will work alongside the London Borough of Newham, Greater London Authority and Transport for London to transform this former industrial site into a vibrant, new neighbourhood. Keystone’s vision and sustained commitment have been instrumental in progressing Thameside West to this stage, laying the foundations for one of London’s most ambitious masterplans. GLA Land and Property Limited (“GLAP”), as the other major landowner, will work closely with Arada to unlock this significant project. Thameside West is one of the most well-connected sites in London and benefits from the recently completed Silvertown Tunnel, Custom House station (Elizabeth, Jubilee and Docklands Light Railway (DLR) lines), City Airport, and the IFS Cable Car. The site also connects the Lea Valley Regeneration Area and the wider Royal Docks, and Arada aims to additionally deliver a new DLR station, in partnership with Transport for London. His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Arada, said: “Our entry into this market was grounded in our unwavering faith in London and its attractiveness as one of the world’s leading capital cities.  At the time of the Regal acquisition, we articulated our ambition to scale our London residential pipeline to 30,000 units over the next three years, and we have swiftly delivered on growing that pipeline. Thameside West represents a unique opportunity to create a landmark riverside development, and we look forward to working with our partners and utilising our long-standing track record in large-scale, amenity rich residential schemes to unlock the delivery of new housing for London.” Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development said: “I am delighted that Arada is investing in London to transform Thameside West – one of the key sites within the Royal Docks. This really is a fantastic example of how we can unlock London’s potential to deliver the homes our city so urgently needs. “Working together we will be able to deliver at least 5,000 new homes, 35 per cent of which will be affordable as part of a thriving new neighbourhood in the heart of this historic part of East London. “This is a landmark moment as we continue to push ahead with our plans to return the Royal Docks to its former glory and create a better, fairer, greener London for everyone.”  Lord Norman Foster of Thamesbank, Founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners, said: “Thameside West is a place where architecture, nature and infrastructure come together in balance. The stepped design ensures exceptional views from every building, while the integration of air, road, rail, river and tunnel links makes this one of the most connected sites in London. Half the master plan is dedicated to green space, including more than a thousand trees and a kilometre of active waterfront, creating a setting that is both restorative and dynamic. Our goal is to build a truly inclusive community – one that brings opportunity, sustainability and vitality to the heart of London.” Giorgio L. Laurenti, Chairman of Keystone, said: “One of the most significant development opportunities in Greater London, Thameside West is a transformational destination designed to deliver thousands of new homes while generating substantial economic and social value for the wider community. With Arada, we have found an ideal and trusted partner, with tried-and-tested experience in large-scale urban mixed-use districts, to work with as we move closer to bringing this landmark project to life.” The acquisition of Thameside West increases Arada’s London development pipeline to 15,000 homes, supporting its ambition to triple this to 30,000 units over the next three years, building on a 30-year track record in the capital’s real estate market. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Packaged Living has secured planning consent for a landmark two-tower development overlooking Liverpool’s waterfront, unlocking 434 new homes and extensive resident amenities on the site of the former Littlewoods computer centre. Rising to 19 and 25 storeys, the buildings will form a prominent gateway on the approach to the city’s commercial core. The scheme will deliver purpose-built homes for the private rented sector alongside shared facilities, with new public realm designed to improve permeability across the site and strengthen connections towards the Bramley-Moore Dock stadium. Demolition of the redundant computer centre is expected to begin early next year. Main construction is anticipated to start in early 2027, with a principal contractor yet to be appointed. The approved plans follow a period of public consultation, during which design revisions focused on townscape, active frontages at ground level and improved pedestrian links through the site. Development manager Edwina Coward said the project reflects a collaborative approach with the local community: “We’re excited to be bringing forward a landmark development at this prominent gateway site and we’re so pleased to be able to provide more homes and public realm for this great city. An extensive public consultation unlocked the wisdom of the Liverpool public and we were delighted at the quality of people’s ideas and observations about how we could improve the scheme and connectivity towards the new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium and everything in between. The outcome is very much a shared vision.” Architect Adam Hall of Falconer Chester Hall added that the composition is intended to anchor a cluster of taller buildings: “The buildings offer an elegant and confident entrance statement to the city’s commercial core in an area that delivers on the potential of clustering taller buildings. The views north towards Everton’s new stadium, Blackpool Tower and the Lake District fells beyond will take some beating.” With consent secured, the team will move into procurement and technical design ahead of enabling works. The project is expected to contribute to Liverpool’s supply of high-quality city living while supporting local employment during construction and enhancing the waterfront approach with new public spaces and improved connectivity. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Caddick Construction has secured a £36.8 million contract to build Farringdon Row in Sunderland, marking its third built-to-rent (BTR) project for developer Placefirst. The development will feature 165 homes, including a mix of townhouses and apartments, and forms the second new neighbourhood under Sunderland City Council’s Riverside Sunderland Masterplan, which aims to deliver 1,000 new city centre homes. Managed from Caddick’s Durham offices at Belmont Business Park, Farringdon Row expands the contractor’s growing North East portfolio and underscores its focus on regional projects. Steve Ford, Regional Managing Director for Caddick Construction North East & Yorkshire, said: “We’re very proud to be continuing our strong partnership with Placefirst on this exciting new build-to-rent scheme in Sunderland. Following the successful delivery of Bolt Works and Deansgate Gardens, our appointment to Farringdon Row reflects the quality, trust and shared vision we’ve built together. We are privileged to play a role in the regeneration of Sunderland, creating high-quality homes and thriving communities for local people.” Phil Jones, Development Director at Placefirst, added: “Farringdon Row is an exciting addition to our growing portfolio and reflects our commitment to creating quality homes designed for long-term living in Sunderland. By working closely with Caddick Construction, we’re proud to be supporting Sunderland City Council’s ambitious Riverside regeneration plans and bringing new energy to the heart of the city’s waterfront. “Our partnership with Caddick has gone from strength to strength through several successful projects. Now, Farringdon Row will play a key role in continuing to improve the standard of city centre living in Sunderland, through high quality, sustainable homes and green spaces.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Plans for a major new housing development comprising 165 homes on land off Madgwick Lane in Chichester have been approved by Chichester District Council, allowing Persimmon Homes South Coast to begin construction later this year. Situated close to the South Downs National Park and Goodwood Estate, the approved scheme will deliver 115 open-market homes and 50 affordable properties for low-cost ownership. The development also includes landscaped green spaces, play areas, and a range of ecological enhancements aimed at improving local biodiversity. The application was developed in close collaboration with council officers to ensure the design was sensitive to its surroundings and addressed key technical and environmental considerations. To manage the site’s proximity to Goodwood Estate, the scheme incorporates acoustic mitigation measures and advanced building design solutions. Specialist consultants modelled aircraft and circuit noise to inform the site layout, while enhanced glazing and ventilation systems will ensure comfortable internal conditions throughout the year. A drainage strategy has also been developed, reflecting the site’s position near the River Lavant. The strategy combines sustainable drainage features with targeted ecological improvements to manage surface water and enhance the river corridor’s natural value. National planning and development consultancy Lichfields advised Persimmon Homes throughout the process, working closely with the council and technical consultees, and helping to secure agreement on affordable housing provision. Darren Dancey, Divisional Operations Director at Persimmon Homes, said: “We’re delighted to have received planning permission for this high-quality development of 165 much-needed new homes in Chichester. Our scheme will deliver energy-efficient homes, wide areas of green space and affordable routes to home ownership for local people, while contributing to improvements on the A27 and other local priorities.” As part of the approval, Persimmon Homes will contribute almost £2 million towards local infrastructure and public services, including £640,000 for highway upgrades to the A27, helping to support wider community and transport improvements in the area. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals